Ashraf says 'conspiring forces' working against revival of international games in Pak

Karachi, Apr 27 (ANI): Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohammad Zaka Ashraf has said that 'some forces' are working against the revival of international cricket in the country, although he insisted that he will continue working for the purpose in what he termed is his biggest challenge.

Ashraf had singled out the revival of international cricket as his priority when he took over the post from Ijaz Butt in October 2011, although inspite of repeated efforts, the PCB has failed to host top-flight cricket, the Express Tribune reports.

Stating that the postponed Pakistan Premier League (PPL) had fallen prey to conspiracies, Ashraf said that some people did not want them hosting the PPL for which they started forcing foreign boards to decide against participating in the league.

Ashraf further said that following that, the players' associations raised objections against the event, which forced the PCB to delay it as they were already facing security challenges.

However, Ashraf said that he was continuing efforts for the revival of the PPL, adding that they have been discussing with other boards on hosting a series and talks have been positive so far.

He further said that the PCB had also engaged in a dialogue with the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) for a commitment regarding PPL, under which Pakistani players will be featuring in the forthcoming Caribbean League so that the WICB sends its cricketers for the PPL. (ANI)